Days after Brazilian Ramires joined Jiangsu Suning from Chelsea for a then Asian record $36 million fee, Guangzhou Evergrande signed Martinez from Atletico Madrid for a whopping $46 million.

The 29-year-old has signed a four-year deal with the CSL team and will join winter training in Dubai on 9 February following a physical examination.

“Once he has had medical clearance, he will fly directly to Dubai on February 9 to join his team mates for winter training in preparation for the new season,” the Chinese Super League club said on its website.

He scored only three goals in 22 appearances for La Liga outfit following his move from Porto last summer. Martinez will play under former Chelsea and Brazil boss Luiz Felipe Scolari, while former Tottenham midfielder Paulinho and compatriot Robinho will be his new team-mates.

Martinez, thus joined a hosts of global stars landing in Chaina this year. Gervinho and Fredy Guarin, both from Serie A; Asamoah Gyan and Demba Ba from English Premier League have already joined Chinese clubs.